19th century comic strips

The Yellow Kid, by Richard F. Outcault, is credited as the first comic strip ever (partly because Outcault invented the dialogue balloon). Originally titled Hogan’s Alley, the strips told the story of ranbunctious kids in a New York city slum, and eventually came to focus on the youngster at left. In its prime, the strip was wildly popular.

While not a household name today, the Kid’s influence is sweeping and outsized, and his influence is acknowledged here and there. Caillou, for example.

In addition to its historical, groundbreaking cred, it’s also a great work of art.

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